Find Antonyms
likely Antonyms
Opposite of likely
Because the opposite of likely shifts with each meaning, the 19 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• adjective (Context 1)
Having a high probability of occurring or being true; probable.
Usage Example
"Rain is the most unlikely outcome given the dark clouds gathering on the horizon."
Strongest
unlikely
improbable
doubtful
Strong
dubious
unexpected
unforeseen
impossible
• adverb (Context 2)
In all probability; probably.
Usage Example
"The committee will improbably announce its final decision by the end of the week."
Strongest
improbably
Strong
doubtfully
• adjective (Context 3)
Apparently suitable, promising, or well-adapted for a particular purpose.
Usage Example
"The scouting committee identified several unlikely candidates for the scholarship."
Strongest
unlikely
unpromising
unsuitable
Strong
inappropriate
unfit
unqualified
• adjective (Context 4)
Seemingly true or credible; believable (often used ironical in the phrase 'a likely story').
Usage Example
"She offered a unlikely explanation for why the accounting records were delayed."
Strongest
unlikely
implausible
unbelievable
incredible
Strong
unconvincing
far-fetched
dubious
Similar words to likely
Words similar to likely shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
probable
probably
plausible
credible
believable
promising
suitable
expected
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Likely. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/likely